Vision screenings are general eye tests that are meant to help identify people who are at risk for vision problems. An eye exam, on the other hand, is more than just checking to see if you need glasses.

During a complete eye exam, it is determined whether eyeglasses or contact lenses are required, but over and above, the eyes are checked for common eye diseases, it is assessed how the pair of eyes work together as a team and they are evaluated as an indicator of overall health.

Early signs of some conditions and diseases can be detected by looking at the eye's blood vessels, retina and so on. The possibility of developing high blood pressure, high cholesterol or a few other health problems often can be foretold in an eye exam.

Eye examinations are as important as physical exams and must be done every one to three years, depending on age, risk factors and physical condition.